The 151st Preakness Stakes is set to take the stage this Saturday at Laurel Park, and while a Triple Crown bid is off the table, the excitement is far from over. With Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo sitting out the second leg of the series, the field of 14 horses is wide open—and that means strategy shifts, bold moves, and a thrilling 1 3/16-mile sprint under the lights.

Trainers and jockeys are recalibrating their plans after Golden Tempo's standout performance at Churchill Downs, and the stakes couldn't be higher for the contenders left in the mix. Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or a casual viewer, this year's Preakness promises edge-of-your-seat action at a historic venue.

Here's everything you need to know to catch every stride of the action on race day.

When and Where to Watch
The 2026 Preakness Stakes will air live on NBC, with the main event scheduled to start at approximately 7:01 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 16. This year, the race moves to Laurel Park as Pimlico Race Course undergoes renovations—a change that adds a fresh layer of intrigue to the tradition-rich event.

Streaming Options
Can't make it to the track? No problem. You can stream the race live on Peacock or via DIRECTV, which offers a free trial for new subscribers. With DIRECTV, you'll also get access to must-have sports channels like ESPN, FS1, and NFL Network—perfect for keeping up with all the season's biggest moments.

What to Expect
Without a Triple Crown hopeful, the Preakness field is a competitive free-for-all. Expect jockeys to take calculated risks and trainers to push for early positioning on Laurel Park's track. It's a night where underdogs can shine and favorites can stumble—and that's exactly what makes horse racing so captivating.

So grab your lucky hat, settle in, and get ready for a Saturday night of pure racing drama. Whether you're watching from home or hosting a watch party, the Preakness Stakes is a can't-miss moment in the sports calendar.